Oscar Pistorius released from prison after less than a year

Oscar Pistorius released from prison after less than a year

South African Olympic and Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius has been released from prison less than a year after he was jailed for killing his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp.

Pistorius is expected to spend the remainder of his five-year prison sentence, for culpable homicide or manslaughter, at his uncle’s home in Pretoria.

He was found guilty in October last year after he shot Steenkamp through a locked bathroom door. He always claimed that he believed she was an intruder.

Steenkamp’s relatives, though, believe Pistorius is “getting off lightly”. Under South African law, the double amputee was eligible for release under “correctional supervision” having served a sixth of his sentence.

Reeva Steenkamp. PHOTO: GALLO IMAGES

State prosecutors have lodged an appeal, to be heard by the Supreme Court of Appeal on November 3, as they believe Pistorius should have been convicted of murder. If the appeal is successful Pistorius could face a lengthy sentence back in prison.

Pistorius’ parole conditions include gun ownership restrictions and continued psychotherapy sessions. He is also expected to do a period of community service.

Reeva Steenkamp’s cousin Kim Martin, speaking to the BBC, said the family might consider visiting Pistorius when the time is “right”.

Her parents have previously said that the time served by Pistorius was “not enough for taking a life”.